Variegated Pearls (Curio rowleyanus)

Pearls, but make them fancy.

The Variegated String of Pearls takes one of our favourite trailing succulents and gives it a gorgeous little upgrade. Its delicate, bead-like leaves are marbled with creamy white and soft green, sometimes developing a subtle blush of pink when grown in bright light.

Those beautiful pearl-covered stems tumble over the edges of hanging pots and shelves, creating a cascading display that's every bit as unusual as it looks. A little more particular than its all-green cousin, but absolutely worth making room for.

And yes, those pearls are real leaves. Clever, isn't it?

Plant Care

• Light: Loves plenty of bright, indirect light, with a little gentle morning sunshine. Good light helps maintain its beautiful variegation, but avoid prolonged harsh afternoon sun.
• Watering: Allow the compost to dry out thoroughly between waterings. Its pearl-shaped leaves store water, making overwatering its biggest enemy.
• Temperature: Happiest around 18–24°C. Protect from cold draughts, frost and temperatures below 10°C.
• Humidity: Normal household humidity is ideal. No misting or extra humidity required.
• Feed: Feed sparingly with a diluted cactus and succulent fertiliser during spring and summer.

Meet Your Plant

• Foliage: Small, spherical, pearl-like leaves marbled with creamy white and shades of green
• Growth: Delicate trailing stems that cascade beautifully from hanging pots, shelves and elevated planters
• Variegation: Every strand is different, with naturally varying patterns of green, cream and occasional pink tones
• Flowers: Mature plants can produce small, white, cinnamon-scented flowers under suitable conditions
• Pet Warning: Toxic if eaten. Keep away from curious cats, dogs and children.
• Also Known As: Variegated String of Beads, Variegated String of Peas
• Botanical Name: Curio rowleyanus ‘Variegatus’ (also sold as Senecio rowleyanus ‘Variegatus’)
• Origin: A variegated cultivated form of a succulent species native to southern Africa
• Size: 12cm pot and trail between 15cm and 25cm, each plant varies